The new Royal Netherlands Navy vessel HNLMS Karel Doorman will set sail for the first time on Tuesday, July 1st at Den Helder naval port.
HNLMS Karel Doorman conducted her first sea trials on Sunday, June 22, at the Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding’s (DSNS) Vlissingen yard.
On Wednesday, June 25, the vessel performed its first replenishment-at-sea operation, which will be one of its main tasks in the future. The ship can be used for multiple purposes, including warship fueling and resupply, transportation of Army equipment, and serving as a floating hospital.
Dutch Defense Minister Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert christened HNLMS Karel Doorman (A388) on March 8th.
HNLMS Karel Doorman, which will replace the now-retired HNLMS Zuidekruis and the HNLMS Amsterdam, is expected to be inducted into service by 2015.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, June 27, 2014; Image: Netherlands Navy